Support override in Templeton

Tuesday

Mar 5, 2013 at 6:00 AM

As a taxpayer of Templeton, I am pledging my support and commend Superintendent Ruth Miller for her proposed FY14 budget. Despite facing drastic cuts in state aid, a reduction in other revenue, and an increase in overall costs, Ms. Miller has proposed a budget that is fiscally responsible and sensible for these ever challenging times.

After attending the budget meeting Feb. 28, it is evident that the school department has made countless cuts, and has been chiseled down to the bone. With a failed override last year, and a lack of available resources, the school department has been forced to recommend a budget seeking some assistance from the townsfolk.

Local bloggers are quick to paint school supporters as out of touch and greedy. The reality is that we have made draconian cuts — as we all have over the past 5 years — and it is time that we as a community step up to the plate. With our classroom sizes busting at the seams, students using science texts pre-1970, and teachers earning salaries amongst the lowest in the commonwealth, I would not classify it as greed. I would call it embarrassing.

With all of these facts presented, I truly understand that we are all doing more with less. Despite this, I would argue that we need to jumpstart our local economy and turn this thing around. Let’s vote yes to this proposed override, and say yes to our children’s education and future.